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BLACKPINK’s Lisa took Victoria Secret’s fashion show by storm with outstanding looks and performances.
The LLOUD Co. founder made this year’s Victoria secret’s fashion show a memorable moment for the attendees. The show, which returned to New York City after about 6 years, started off with a strong opening after Lisa gave an outstanding performance of her solo debut hit, “ROCKSTAR”.
After an exceptional opening act themed to resemble a fashion show presentation, Lisa took a break before returning to the runway to close the show with her latest “Moonlit” track. In addition to the performance, Lisa made a memorable entrance with a lingerie look resembling Victoria Secret’s fashion line.
—-Karen Mwenda
#BLACKPINK #Lisa #BLACKPINKsLisa #Moonlit #VictoriasSecretFashionShow #lingerie #kcrush #kpop #kidol #LisaperformsatVictoriaSecretFashionShow #ROCKSTER #kcrushamerica #kfashion #NewYorkCity #kcrushmagazine
√ Five-member girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’, which is about to debut in 2024, is expected to debut by unveiling the brand logo
√ A member “Myah” was appeared in M.net “Girls Planet 999” before debut, and she also made it to the program’s final round.
New girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ (TOP Media), set to debut in the second half of 2024, announced its official launch by releasing their brand logo.
The brand logo of ‘ODD YOUTH’, which was unveiled on its official social media on the 7th, was designed by LMNT Company, a firm known for its global expertise in creative brand design, having won awards such as the Red Dot Awards, the world’s third-largest design awards, the IF Awards, and the German GDA.
‘ODD YOUTH’ may seem unconventional from others’ perspectives, but it represents a collective of unique individuals expressing their honest stories.
While it differs from the mainstream, the group plans to unfold the narrative of ‘ODD YOUTH’ in the future, centering around the keyword “friend,” which holds great significance for youth and young people pursuing their dreams with individuality.
In particular, the core design element of the ‘ODD YOUTH’ brand logo features two symbols that represent the bond between friends and the solidarity between artists and their fandom.
The new girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ consists of five members: MYAH, SUMMER, MAIKA, KANIE, and YEEUM. Among them, MYAH reached the final round of Mnet’s “Girls Planet 999,” where she was beloved by many viewers as the youngest contestant. It is expected that she will debut as a member of ‘ODD YOUTH’ after honing her skills through her experience on the audition program.
Meanwhile, ‘ODD YOUTH’, which is on the verge of debuting, plans to release a “Brand Logo Motion” video today (the 8th) to kick off a countdown to their official debut. In the future, additional content featuring the members will be released, along with official debut information.
#MYAH #SUMMER #MAIKA #KANIE #YEEUM #ODDYOUTH #newband #TOPMEDIA #LMNTCompany #logodesign #kpop #willdebut #MnetsGirlsPlanet999 #BrandLogoMotion #RedDot #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #korean #koreangirlgroup #ODDYOUTHdebut
NewJean’s Hanni broke down while testifying during the parliamentary audit.
On October 15, NewJean’s Hanni appeared before the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee held a parliamentary audit. Hanni appeared as a reference while HYBE’s CEO, Kim Jooyoung, appeared as a witness. The audit was concerning workplace harassment and bullying of K-pop idols. This also followed Hanni’s previous comments that a HYBE label manager had told other idols to ignore her.
In the session, Hanna revealed that this incident of a manager encouraging other idols to ignore her is not the only work harassment and bullying case that she experienced while under HYBE. She added that since her debut, she always brushed shoulders with high-ranking officials who never acknowledged her greetings. Hanni clarified that despite following the Korean culture of respecting elders, none of her greetings were acknowledged, terming it as unprofessional and disrespectful to human beings.
Hanni also highlighted the incident where HYBE employees badmouthed NewJeans on the Blind platform undermining the group’s accomplishments. Hanni confirmed that her efforts of fighting for justice were trashed after HYBE’s CEO downplayed the incident claiming the lack of valid evidence. In confidence, Hanni commented that HYBE is trying to bring NewJeans down for their skyrocketing success. In tears, Hanni thanked Korea for allowing her to do what she loves, but also expressed her frustrations because the individuals and parties who should be apologizing are avoiding responsibility. Hanni closed the curtain highlighting that although the law may not solve all world problems, respecting each other as human beings would eliminate workplace harassment and bullying.
—-Karen Mwenda
#NewJeans #HYBE #Hanni #Hannibreaksintotears #HannispeaksattheNationalAssemblysEnvironmentandLaborCommittee #kpop #KimJooyoung #HYBECEO #bullying #Korea #Koreanidol #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #breakingnewsatkcrush #respectforNewJeans
Popular Japanese idol group Snow Man have released their new song ‘One’, available globally on various music streaming platforms for the first time.
Since their debut in January 2020 with the million-selling single ‘D.D. / Imitation Rain’, Snow Man have achieved numerous record-breaking CD sales. In 2023, their third album ‘i DO ME’ achieved million-seller status, making them the first male artist group to have three consecutive albums reach cumulative million sales. Additionally, they have won Artist of the Year at the Japan Gold Disc Awards for three consecutive years (2021-2023). The group’s first ever five-dome tour begins in November 2024.
Snow Man’s first ever song to be released on subscription services, ‘One’, is the ending theme song for the TV anime ‘Blue Lock VS. U-20 JAPAN’. This mid-tempo ballad is a powerful song with lyrics about the unbeatable strength of those with burning passion who pursue their dreams.
▼ Snow Man / ‘One’
Released October 14, 2024 12:00 (Japan Standard Time):
https://mentrecording.lnk.to/one
The music video for ‘One’ will premiere on YouTube at 21:00 JST today, October 14, so don’t miss it!
▼ Snow Man / ‘One’ music video (YouTube Premiere October 14, 21:00 JST)
‘One’ will also be included on Snow Man’s fourth album ‘RAYS’, which releases on October 30. You won’t want to miss this!
▼ Snow Man 4th album ‘RAYS’
Released October 30, 2024
Preorder here:
https://SnowMan.lnk.to/4thalbum_overseas
▼ Snow Man links
Official website: https://mentrecording.jp/snowman/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SnowMan.official.9
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snowman.official.9/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@snowman_mentrecording_s
X (Twitter): https://x.com/SN__20200122
Weibo: https://www.weibo.com/SnowManofficial
Japanese ensemble band NAQT VANE have released ‘FALLOUT’, their first new song since welcoming new member Yunoa, who joins original member Harukaze as twin vocalists. ‘FALLOUT’ is based on the themes of a “new me”, an “ideal me”, and “life after being reborn anew”, depicting the transformation of someone who takes the opportunity to embrace change – and all the madness such curiosity may bring.
The music video for ‘FALLOUT’ was released on September 20, offering a refreshing new look at NAQT VANE’s twin-vocal lineup. And that’s not all – this time, members Hiroyuki SAWANO, Harukaze and Yunoa even try their hand at acting! The video is based around an escape room-style mystery, and the three members’ humorous and surreal acting style is unmissable.
‘FALLOUT’ is the theme song from the movie ‘Ano Hito ga Kieta’, which was released in Japan on the same day and directed by Itaru Mizuno (who was also the music video’s director of photography). As such, the video is linked with the story of the movie, so look out for key items and concepts from the movie.
True to NAQT VANE’s spirit of “creating an uplifting tailwind to guide those with a challenger spirit”, ‘FALLOUT’ sees the group attempting a new form of expression, combining musical performance with acting. Don’t miss this truly special band as they continue to take on all-new challenges in the future.
About NAQT VANE
“A team project creating an uplifting tailwind to guide those with a challenger spirit.”
NAQT VANE is an ensemble project produced by Hiroyuki SAWANO. The group features vocalist Harukaze, who spent eight years living abroad before returning to Japan’s music scene, along with art collective Classic 6 who handle the group’s art direction. They made their debut on September 16, 2022 with the digital single ‘Break Free’.
The group breathe new air into their stories, freeing their true new selves.
Hiroyuki SAWANO｜Overall Producer
Born in Tokyo in 1980, Hiroyuki SAWANO is a highly celebrated composer and producer, providing compositions for music artists, TV shows, anime and movies.
In 2014, he began the project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk], undertaking star collaborations with renowned artists such as Akihito Okano (Porno Graffitti), Sukima Switch, Aimer, Jean-Ken Johnny (MAN WITH A MISSION), Aina the End (BiSH), Yuuri, Taiiku Okazaki, ASKA, suis (Yorushika) and more.
In 2019, he held a solo performance at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, China, with an audience of more than 10,000 fans, marking his advance to the global stage.
After meeting vocalist Harukaze, he launched the team project NAQT VANE in September 2022, participating as overall producer. The group have been releasing original music in Japan and around the world.
Harukaze｜Vocalist
Born in Hokkaido in 1998, Harukaze left Japan at age 15 to attend high school and college abroad. While studying Music Business in Los Angeles, she got a taste of a music culture that was different from what she’d experienced in Japan, and began to make music with people she met in the local scene. She became involved in NAQT VANE after meeting Hiroyuki SAWANO in 2021.
Yunoa｜Vocalist
Yunoa was born in 2003. Influenced by her parents, she grew a taste for Western music such as soul music from an early age, and from her mid-teens she has wanted to become a singer. Yunoa’s vivid yet powerful singing voice allows her to express the negative side of her emotions, giving voice to disappointment, resignation, weakness and contradiction. Yunoa sublimates the unvoiced screams rampant in modern times and turns them into songs.
In March 2024, Yunoa released her first single, ‘sadless’, marking the start of her solo career. Then in May of the same year, she joined the team project NAQT VANE.
Classic 6｜Art Direction
Classic 6 are a creative collective active in Japan and overseas. They undertake art direction and overall production for the fashion, art and music industries, including graphic design, video and venue production. With a focus on visual branding that emphasizes stories and concepts, they are constantly exploring new creative outlets as a collective across a wide range of genres.
Further information
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE |TIKTOK
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With over 240,000 YouTube subscribers and over 70 million total plays, Japanese musician Emi Noda will release her new single ‘ties’ on October 14. The song is featured as the ending theme song to the hit anime series ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’.
The song’s stripped-back piano arrangement that underpins Noda’s incredible singing voice was handled by Teppei Kakuda, who has produced and arranged songs for female Japanese artists such as Friday Night Plans and sato moka. The result is a contagiously positive song that conveys the image of friends helping one another get back up over and over again in the face of defeat – inspired by the story of ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’.
This fall, Noda will begin her first national solo tour of Asia, which will include shows in four cities in China.
Emi Noda profile
Emi Noda is a female Japanese musician with over 240,000 subscribers on YouTube and over 70 million total plays. Her creative talent and unique perspective are unbound by genres, and her intimate music provides endless comfort and courage for her listeners, adding color to their daily lives as if she were right beside them. Her incredible singing voice and worldview continue to captivate her audience, while her impressive songwriting skills and passionate performances make her an artist unlike any other.
Further information
WEBSITE | X (TWITTER) | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | OTHER LINKS
* List of countries outside Japan to be announced soon
As they celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut, Japanese rock band I Don’t Like Mondays. release their latest EP, ‘FOCUS’, on Wednesday, October 9. This set of songs fully captures the band’s identity, which has always incorporated global trends, channeling them into their own unique style.
‘FOCUS’ shows the unique musicality that IDLMs. have developed over the past decade, culminating in an EP that is not merely a retrospective of the past 10 years, but a statement of their intention to “focus” on the future.
A Music Video for ‘Shadow’, a track taken from their EP, was also released on YouTube.
▼’Shadow’ Music Video
https://youtu.be/JzDenVu6GcM?si=3vH9HeT2FU7kKeFr
The quiet and serious intro gives a sense of the beginning of a story, resulting in a danceable track that combines darkness and pop. Additionally, the lyrics written by YU express the ‘Negativity’ inherent in humans, portraying how, amidst a society filled with irony, we carry loneliness and conflict, yet resist by dancing in the shadows.
The group will kick off their ‘FOCUS’ ASIA TOUR kicks off in October, with the list of countries outside of Japan to be announced soon.
About I Don’t Like Mondays.
I Don’t Like Mondays. are a four-piece rock band from Japan. With their musical roots in the 1980s and a meticulous sound and groove, they transcend the boundaries between Japanese and Western music. Their songs are filled with the feeling of exhilaration you get when cruising through the city streets.
Known to their fans as IDLMs., the group are renowned for their sophisticated and passionate concerts that recreate the atmosphere of attending an exclusive overseas high-end fashion show. Their live performances have found enthusiastic audiences not only in Japan but also in places around the globe including South America, Asia and Europe.
Further information
MUSIC | WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE
Japanese boyband Da-iCE released their new album ‘MUSi-aM’ on Wednesday, October 2.
Da-iCE’s first new original album in a year and four months, its release coincides with the 10th anniversary of the group’s major-label debut. The album title is pronounced “museum”, and as the name suggests, the album pays homage to the group’s history up till now.
The album’s 16 songs include the hit ‘I wonder’, which has been played over 100 million times on streaming services, as well as anime series ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’ opening theme song ‘Story’, YouTube channel Teikou Penguin opening song ‘A2Z’, TV Tokyo drama series ‘Hyena’ theme song ‘Nai Mono Nedari’, and even some new songs produced by the group members themselves.
▼ ‘MUSi-aM’ streaming and download links:
▼ Da-iCE / New album ‘MUSi-aM’ all songs teaser video:
Additionally, the music video teaser for the album’s lead track ‘TAKE IT BACK’ is also out now. The lyrics for this song were written by members Taiki Kudo and Sota Hanamura, with lyrics, composition and arrangement by STY. This aggressive dance tune squeezes 10 years of Da-iCE into one song. In the teaser, various video cuts change in quick succession, evoking a unique worldview, while the eye-catching footage of the group members makes for a teaser that builds anticipation for the full video when it is eventually released.
▼Da-iCE / ‘TAKE IT BACK’ music video teaser:
Da-iCE are currently on tour to mark the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut. On Sunday, October 6 – the final date of the Da-iCE 10th Anniversary Instore Event 2024 -MUSi-aM- tour – the group will hold a special event that includes a live performance at Makuhari Toyosuna Park in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture.
In addition, the group will hold an arena tour from November this year, creating an anniversary year where fans can experience the history of Da-iCE through performances at the Nippon Budokan, live concert halls, in-store venue and arenas. Keep an eye on the group as they continue to go from strength to strength!
Release information
■ New album ‘MUSi-aM’ released Wednesday, October 2
▼ Streaming and download links:
▼ Physical edition purchase links:
https://da-ice.lnk.to/1002MUSi-aM
▼ Album details:
https://da-ice.jp/news/detail.php?id=1117565
Deluxe edition with nameplate: Album + DVD 3-disc set / album + Blu-ray 3-disc set 22,000 yen (tax included)
Deluxe edition: Album + DVD 3-disc set / album + Blu-ray 3-disc set 20,000 yen (tax included)
Video edition: Album + DVD 2-disc set / album + Blu-ray 2-disc set 9,680 yen (tax included)
Standard edition: Album 3,900 yen (tax included)
Da-iCE profile
Da-iCE are a five-piece boyband with twin vocalists who boast an impressive four-octave singing range. The members are vocalists Yudai Ohno and Sota Hanamura, and performers Taiki Kudo, Toru Iwaoka and Hayate Wada.
Released in November 2020, their song ‘CITRUS’ became the first song by a Japanese male dance and vocal group to surpass 100 million streams, and won an award at the prestigious 63rd Japan Record Awards in 2021. Their song ‘Star Mine’, which was released soon after, became a huge hit thanks to its Reiwa Era-style festival vibe and wide-ranging appeal, and in 2024, the group celebrated the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut.
Next, their song ‘I wonder’ was released in April this year to massive success, with 900 million views on TikTok and over 100 million total streams, making it their third song to reach that milestone! Their latest album ‘MUSi-aM’ was released on October 2, 2024.
Da-iCE links
▼ Da-iCE official website: https://da-ice.jp
▼ Da-iCE official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DaiCECH
▼ Da-iCE_STAFF official X (Twitter) account: https://twitter.com/Da_iCE_STAFF
▼ Da-iCE_STAFF official Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/da_ice_staff/
▼ Da-iCE_OFFICIAL TikTok account: https://www.tiktok.com/@da_ice_official
ChoA, a former member of Crayon Pop has revealed that she was diagnosed with cervix cancer.
On October 13, ChoA shared on her social media platforms that she was diagnosed with cervix cancer in May 2023. The celebrity, who had just gotten married and is just in her early 30s, spent most of her newly-wed life in hospitals trying to beat this predicament. ChoA stated that after the shocking revelation, she went on to visit the country’s 5 biggest university hospitals hoping that each would give her a different answer. After finally coming to terms with the reality, ChoA and her newly-wed husband started the test and treatment.
ChoA revealed that she was diagnosed with Stage 1 cervix cancer with a 3 cm tumor. Her world shuttered further upon hearing that despite a successful treatment, the chances of preserving her fertility were in the balance. Amidst tears and heartbreak and with her husband’s unwavering support and prayers, ChoA started the treatment. ChoA revealed that she is finally on her fourth follow-up exam after a successful surgery that reduced the tumor and thankfully her fertility was preserved. She added that she is scheduled for another surgery to further protect her fertility since her cervix was removed. ChoA will have her uterine body tied in advance to prepare for pregnancy. ChoA finished by sharing her desires of being a mother even as she makes a full recovery.
—-Karen Mwenda
#ChoA #CrayonPop #CrayonPopChoA #CancerDiagnosis #kcrush #kpop #kidol #medical #CervixCancer #ChoAbreakingnews #wishherwell #fullrecovery #husbandstandsbyher #kcrushannouncement #kcrushmagazine #koreanculture #cervixtreatment
An international account affiliated with RIIZE boy band has shut down.
RIIZE FILM, an international fan account that has been supporting RIIZE and Seunghan as well has shut down. The account, which has been in operation for about 2 years, has given RIIZE a global platform harnessing the power of an international fan base.
However, amidst an internet uproar regarding Seunghan’s return to RIIZE after a hiatus because of a personal controversy and his official step down from RIIZE, the account was officially shut down. Before the closedown, the account posted a picture of RIIZE with all 7 members. One of the final posts wished happiness to RIIZE band and Seunghan in his future endeavors. The administrator thanked BRIIZE for the 2 years filled with memorable moments. The closed down was met with mixed reactions from supporters and critics of Seunghan.
—-Karen Mwenda
#RIIZE #RIIZEInternationalFanAccountClosesDown #kcrush #kpop #Seunghan #RIIZEBRIIZE #koreanpopnews #kidol #koreanculture #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #RIIZEFiLM #RIIZEFILMClosesAccount #koreangroup
Jang Shin Young has finally cleared the air on Kang Kyung Joon’s affair controversy.
While appearing on “My Little Old Boy” broadcast on October 13, Jang Shin Young talked about the husband’s affair issue which saw the actress stay away from the limelight for some months. Before touching on the issue, Shin Young confessed she was feeling anxious, especially due to the overwhelming articles that flooded media platforms before her appearance “My Little Old Boy”. Despite the confidence-stripping allegations and suspicions in the articles, Shin Young overcame the contemplating of not appearing on the broadcast.
Jang Shin Young confirmed that the husband’s controversy did hurt her and the family. Nonetheless, she considered her young children and repentant partner and chose healing over brokenness. Shin Young confessed to revealing the ordeal to her teenage son and asking him to accept her decision and help her through this recovery process.
Shin Young also confessed that over the last 10 months, after the controversy, life was difficult. Moreover, given the couple’s celebrity status, biased articles arose but the couple could not make public statements thus giving grounds for more rumors. Shin Young also confessed that she and her children had deliberately stayed away from internet platforms to work on rebuilding their family.
—-Karen Mwenda
#JangShinYoung #Actress #HusbandsAffairControversy #healing #rebuilding #JangShinYoungopensup #kcrush #koreanactress #celebrity #unfortunateaffair #ShinYoungtalks #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #marriage #marriagedifficulties #healingmarriage #workthingsout #breakingnews
Seunghan shared a handwritten letter stating that he will no longer be returning to RIIZE.
On October 13, Seunghan announced that he will not only be halting his return to RIIZE, but will be leaving the group. In a heartfelt letter, Seunghan apologized to the fans and group members for the pain and confusion caused by his actions.
A few days ago, Seunghan had confirmed that he would be returning to RIIZE after a hiatus. The hiatus was due to a controversy after Seunghan’s pre-debut photos were leaked online. After the hiatus, Seunghan apologized for damaging the team’s image and letting down the fun.
Nonetheless, some fans did not take the matter lightly causing an internet uproar. Seunghan gave in to the pressure and shared a handwritten letter indicating that he will no longer be returning to RIIZE as said earlier. In the letter, Seunghan apologized for the torment that his actions inflicted on the group members and fans as well.
Seunghan thanked the members and management company for willing to take him back despite his previous shortcomings. To avoid further rift between RIIZE and BRIIZE, the artist confirmed that he will be leaving RIIZE group.
—-Karen Mwenda
#SeunghanRIIZE #SeunghanleavingRIIZE #SeunghanwillnotreturntoRIIZE #BRIIZE #kcrush #thankedmembers #kpop #knews #kpopnews #kidol #SeunghanleavesRIIZE #kcrushamerica #Seunghanchangesmind #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #kpopgroup #RIIZE
October girl group band reputation ranking results are out. The Korean Business Research Institute analyzed the media coverage, community indexes, consumer participation, and interactions of K-pop girl groups for the rankings. Here are the top 5 October girl group band reputation rankings.
1. LE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM won this month’s rankings with a reputation index of 4,887,479. This is a 37% increase compared to their last month’s score. “Crazy” was one of the high-ranking phrases in the group’s keyword analysis. This would make sense as LE SSERAFIM’s “Crazy” comeback single in August raised the group’s Spotify monthly listeners from 11 to 15 million. As of October 11, “ANTIFRAGILE” track became the group’s 1st single to surpass 500 million Spotify streams while the “EASY” track became the 6th single to surpass 200 million Spotify views.
2. AESPA
AESPA came in second with a reputation index of 4,840,235. The recently concluded 1st leg of ‘SYNK: Parallel Line’ tour, whose 2025 US and Europe legs were recently announced, played a major role in AESPA’s ranking. Moreover, the recently released 4 solo tracks by each member as well as the highly anticipated October “Whiplash” album have contributed heavily to AESPA’s ranking.
3. IVE
IVE took the third position with a reputation index of 4,685,474. This marks a 2.83% increase from last month’s score. The group’s recently concluded ‘Show What I Have’ world tour, Karina’s appearance in Paris Fashion Week 2024, and their latest sales record-breaking ‘IVE Switch’ album have contributed to IVE’s top 3 ranking.
4. BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK came in fourth with a reputation index of 3,894,967 which marks an 87.67% increase from September’s scores. Jennie’s “Mantra” single, Lisa’s “Moonlit Floor” single, Rose’s upcoming ‘Rosie’ full-length album announcement, and Jisoo’s upcoming album teaser.
5. FIFTY FIFTY
FIFTY FIFTY took fifth place with a reputation index of 3,502,869 marking a 178.30% increase from September’s scores. The ranking was contributed to by the overwhelming fanbase excitement after the group recently reformed and returned as a quintet band. The group’s successful August comeback 2nd album, ‘Starry Night’, also helped raise the rebranded FIFTY FIFTY band’s brand ranking score.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Top5OctoberGirlGroupBandReputationRanking #kpop #koreanranking #kcrush #FIFTuFIFTY #BLACKPINK #IVY #kidol #kcrushmagazine #kfashion #kpopreputationranking #StarryNightFIFTYFIFTY #AESPA #LESSERAFIM #Crazy #Spotify #SpotifyMonthlyListens #KoreanBusinessResearchInstitute #koreanculture #koreanmusic #hallyu #girlgroupranking #korea #kcrushamericamagazine #monthlylistens #brandrankingscore
Hashtag group has disbanded after 7 years since its debut.
According to October 12th reports, Hashtag girl band bid its goodbyes to the K-pop entertainment industry. The group, which debuted in October 2017 under LUK Factory, has fought a good fight for 7 years before calling it quits. The band’s final piece was the “Diamond” single released in 2023.
Formed by Kan Mi Yeon, a former V.O.X member, Hashtag band has experienced several changes over the years. before the storms, Hashtag was a 7-member group comprising Hyunji, Sua, Seungmin, Subin, Sojin, Dajeong, and Aeji. Dajeong left the group in 2020 while Aeji left in 2023.
During their peak seasons, Hashtag also made several appearances in musical events and television shows.
The girl band had a diverse pool of dedicated fans who continued and will continue to support the group members in their future endeavors.
Despite their separation, Hashtag has left a legacy in the K-pop industry, which the fans hold dearly.
We were so happy to be given the opportunity to interview them back in 2017. Much happiness and success on the next stage of their lives. Hopefully, we will see a reunion one day in the near future.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Hashtag #Hashtagdisbands #kpop #Dajeong #Aeji #Hyunji #Sua #Seungmin #Subin #Sojin #VOX #KanMiYeon #LUKFactoroy #kpopgirlgroup #girlgroupdisbands #koreanpop #hallyu #kpopindustry #HashtagGirlgroup #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #disbandmentannouncement #koreangirlgroupdisbands #koreangirlgroupnolonger #kpopidol
In his short film Recite with Your Hands, Jazz columnist and filmmaker Jo Won-yong taps into the disconnect writers can experience when the emotions being conveyed through a piece of art seems beyond our reach. In the film, deaf literature editor Yong-in (Gong Seo-yeon) struggles to connect emotionally to a new series of poems she’s been commissioned to work on.
As a writer poetess herself, Yong-in possesses the intuition needed to understand the writing on an intellectual level, but the emotional disconnect exacerbated by writer’s block with her own poetry, causes her frustration she’s unable to shake. Desperate for a way to experience the poetry, she looks into a new way to connect with writing. Inspired by using her hands to feel the vibrations emanating from speakers when listening to music, Young-in enlists the help of a friend who reads the poems, allowing her to feel the vibrations resonating from their vocal chords.
With this film Jo Won-yong shows the audience, particularly those who are hearing, that being deaf and having a disability invisible or otherwise, doesn’t have to be an insurmountable barrier to finding new ways to share the words just at the tips of our fingers with the world. All it takes is patience, imagination, and ingenuity.
In my interview with Jo Won-yong in Jeonju City, South Korea where Recite with Your Hands at the 2024 Jeonju International Film Festival, we spoke about how creating the script and the filmmaker process differs from his work as a columnist, and how Jazz and Korean Sign Language inspired Young-in’s characterization and the tone of the film.
Editorial note: Due to copy right, the voice of the interpreter has been muted and subtitled.
Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12
#kcrush #JeonjuIFF2024 #KoreanCinema #KoreanFilm #AsianCinema #KoreanActress #InternationalFilmFestival #SouthKorea #Korea #interviewwithJoWonYong #featuredinterviews #kcrushinterviews #kcrushfilmfestivalinterview #ReciteWithYourHands #shortfilm
Rapper Jessi has shared an apology statement after one of her fans was assaulted.
According to October 11th reports, a young man was assaulted on September 29 after asking for a photo with Jessi. The reputable rapper, whose acquaintances had blocked the young fan, rudely told him off but Jessi intervened and apologized before walking away. Nonetheless, the young fan claimed that just as he was about to leave, a man approached him and suddenly assaulted him. He further claimed that Jessi did try to intervene at first but later retreated as things escalated.
Following an internet uproar connected to the incident, Jessi personally took to her social media platform to offer a statement of apology. In the October 12th statement, Jessi confirmed that indeed the young fan requested a photo but because it was late at night, she politely declined twice. The statement further highlights that after the sudden twist of events from the assaulter left Jessi in shock making it impossible to show consideration to the fan.
Jessi added that irrespective of how the incident played out, she immensely regrets not stopping the injustice act. However, she clarified that her label contacted the victim’s mother after the incident and will ensure that the victim gets the proper apology and due compensation. The rapper ended by requesting individuals and parties to refrain from perceiving this incident from a one-sided angle. Jessi’s lawyer also confirmed in a news agency that the assaulter was not part of Jessi’s entourage, but a Chinese acquaintance of Jessi’s producer friend.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Jessi #Jessiapologizedforfanassaultincident #JessiFanAssaultIncident #kcrush #kpop #kpopidol #koreanrapper #kcrushamericamagazine #youngfanassault #apology #Jesifanrequestedphoto #Jessitriedtointervene #kpopfan #koreanculture #motheroffanwascontacted #breakingnews #Jessiapologies #kcrushmagazine
The Korean Indie world is often an untapped realm. With most focus on K-pop, this genre doesn’t get as much emphasis as it warrants. A band to watch within the Korean Indie genre is orange flavored cigarettes. They came onto the scene in 2021. With a few singles and two EPs on Spotify, they’re slowly increasing in visibility. 50k+ monthly listeners will likely only keep growing, as their sound is quality. Here’s a review of some of their most popular tracks.
Their biggest single is “orange flavored cigarettes”, a track that combines complexity and simplicity. It features a laid-back beat, strumming electric guitars, and a groovy bass. The lyrics relay a relatable conundrum: Our conversation looks like that ocean//Should I stay or should I leave//I can’t see the waves//Where have all your words gone.
This track has over a million streams on Spotify and is followed by “noah”, a song on its way to a million streams, sitting at just over 500k. The song continues the groovy vibe of their title track. No doubt that they’ll be known for this sound–it’s psychedelic funk in style. Chill and dreamy, it’s the perfect music to put on in the background for studying or on a road trip.
“melting tides” is more of the smooth, chill funk vibe. The female vocals are delicate, airy, and consistent throughout. It’s the perfect pairing as it melts into the melody instead of taking a spotlight. And that’s really the point of this musical style–it allows you to drift away. It’s blissful, a safe place to rest your mind and relax. But if fans also want to focus on the lyrics, they’re easy to follow: I feel like a fool cause of you//Why do I only think of you//I feel like I’m drowning in a pool//Oh please pull me in if you feel the same way about me.
Something to note is that this band sings in all English. That’s impressive for a South Korean based indie group that primarily tours nationally and in Japan. This makes their music more accessible to a global audience. However, these tracks really don’t need to be in a particular language; they’d be enjoyable regardless because of the way the vocals melt into the songs and there’s not a heavy lyrical focus. This also helps transcend borders.
“te amo” feels very upbeat compared to other tracks. It has an 80s feel to it. The vocals are more at the forefront than any of the previous songs. “te amo” also has a surprising rhythm change mid-song. The lyrics are not safe for children or the workplace, as there are some sexual references. However, there are a few tender lines as well: Whispering in my ears//Now we have no tears//We believe in us//To the end of the world.
“pepper” is a groovy, echoey psychedelic track. I particularly liked these song lyrics the most. They’re simple like the others, but relatable. I liked the lines: When that day comes will I regret this?//Too stupid to think about that question//You know, there’s always a “but”//You can stay if you like, not too far// You can stay if you like, not too close.
All in all, orange flavored cigarettes is definitely making moves in the indie scene. Their music is easy to enjoy and will be accessible to many people. I have no doubts they’ll only continue to grow! To keep up with orange flavored cigarettes, make sure to follow them on Spotify or sign up for their newsletter on their website.
—-Ellie Boyd
#OrangeFlavoredCigarettes #KoreanIndiegroup #kcrush #watchforOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kindie #kgroup #kband #kindiesongsinEnglish #koreanindiemusicinEnglish #OrangeFlavoredCigarettesonSpotify #kcrushamerica #noah #meltingtidesOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kcrushrecentarticles #kcrushnews #kcrushmagazine #Koreanindie
Idol marriages have become a ceremony worth looking forward to. Here are 5 idols set to walk down the aisle this October.
Secret’s Ji Eun and Youtuber Park Wi
Actress and former Secret’s Ji Eun walked down the aisle with YouTuber Park Wi on October 9. The ceremony, held in Gangnam, was hosted by TV personality Jun Hyun Moo and entertained by performances from the K-Pop R&B diva Insoon. Through his YouTube channel, Wiracle, Park Wi inspires others through his courageous journey after an accident that left him with quadriplegia. The couple, whose love story has been a beam of hope to many, received huge support from fans across the world.
Hyuna and Yong Jun Hyung
The two K-pop idols and former labelmates shared their marriage details in July. HyunA, a former 4Minute member and currently a soloist, walked down the aisle with Yong Jun Hyung, a former Highlight member, on October 11. The couple had a private ceremony surrounded by family and friends.
Jo Bo Ah
Actress Jo Bo Ah will be getting married to her non-celebrity boyfriend this October. Jo Bo Ah made the announcement in August days after her “Knock Off” drama was revealed. XYZ Studio denied rumors of Jo Bo Ah’s pregnancy. Even after walking down the aisle, the actress promised to continue showering her fans with exceptional performances.
Jo Se Ho
Jo Se Ho will be tying the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend this October. The comedian shared the news during an appearance on “You Quiz on the Block” talk show. This after the comedian confirmed his dating status back in January.
Moon Tae Yoo
In July, Queen of Tears K-drama actor Moon Tae Yoo shared that he would be getting married to his fiancée in early October. In a heartfelt letter, the actor shared a deep affection for his partner and praised her for making him a better person. The actor also asked fans to understand his fiancée’s privacy who prefers to stay out of the limelight.
We wish all these couples a prosperous future.
—-Karen Mwenda
#OctoberKoreanWeedings #2024KoreanWeddings #2024KpopWeedings #kweddings #kactorsweddings #kcrush #kpop #kdrama #kdramaactor #weddingsinkorea #kfashion #weddingfashion #MoonTaeYoo #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #QueenofTears #JoSeHo #YouQuizOnTheBlock #koreancomedian #JoBoAh #HyunA #4Minute #YongJunHyung #Highlight #JiEun #Secret #ParkWi #YouTuber #marriageinoctober #Octoberweddingsinkorea #kidolsmarriages #kcrushrecentarticles
Seunghan is officially a RIIZE member again after going off the grid for 10 months.
In a hand-written comeback letter, Seunghan apologizes for having let the team down with his private life controversy. The star also confirmed that he had reflected on his actions throughout the hiatus and purposes to do all he can to redeem himself and help return the team to its former glory. Seunghan also apologized to the members, the group’s dedicated fans, and company staff as well.
On October 11, SM Entertainment also made an official statement confirming Seunghan’s return to RIIZE. In the letter, addressed to BRIIZE (RIIZE’s fan base) and all who support RIIZE, Wizard Production confirmed that indeed Seunghan was on hiatus due to his pre-debut days’ controversy. Nonetheless, the agency pleaded with the fans to give the star a chance and support the dreams of RIIZE as a whole team. Wizard Production, RIIZE group’s agency, also committed to ensuring that RIIZE repays fans and supporters with good music and performances.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Seunghan #SeunghanreturnstoRIIZE #RIIZE #SMEntertainment #BRIIZE #WizardProduction #kcrush #kpop #koreanpop #kpopidol #returningtogroup #hasreflected #returningafter10monthhiatus #kcrushmagazine #Seunghanwrotealetter #kmusic #koreanboygroupRIIZE #Seunghanhandwrittenapology
The “You’re Pitiful” hit-maker, FIESTAR, has finally reunited after 7 years thanks to Cao’s efforts.
Cao Lu
FIESTAR debuted in August 2012 under LOEN Entertainment consisting of Jei, Cao Lu, Linzy, Hyemi, and Yezi. However, the group was said to have disbanded in May 2018. All the while, Cao Lu, who was the lead dancer, vocalist, and face of the group, was not about to give in without a fight. Despite the backlash and negative comments she received during appearances after the disbandment, Cao Lu numbed the pain to achieve her mission. Seven years after disbandment, Cao Lu was able to help revive FIESTAR.
It was revealed that Cao Lu used the money she earned to help buy back the group’s “You’re pitiful” song’s copyright. In an interview with the ‘Recent Olympics’ YouTube channel, Cao Lu confirmed that though she bought back the song, all proceedings would equally be shared amongst all FIESTAR members. In a more recent interview with the ‘No Back Tak Jae Hoon’ YouTube channel in September, Cao Lu appeared alongside Yezi for the first time in years. In the interview, Cao Lu stated that she is in Korea under a Travel Visa confirming that she could engage in profit-making activities. FIESTAR made an official reunion in August 2024.
We want to say congratulations and wish them much success!
—-Karen Mwenda
#FIESTAR #FIESTARComback #CaoLu #YourePitifulsongscopyright #RecentOlympicsYouTube #Yezi #kcrush #kpop #kpopgirlgroupreturn #2024kpopreturn #NoBackTakJaeHoonYouTube #Koreangroup #kgroup #FIESTERReunion #breakingnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #successtoFIESTAR #happinessforFIESTAR #kcrushbreakingnews #kpopfashion #kpopmusic #kpopgirlgroupreturn #Jei #Hyemi #CaoLuhelpsFIESTARreturn